The Packers got their roster down to 53 before the deadline on Tuesday. There were some surprising and tough decisions that were made on cut down day. However, the Packers do have a lot of talent all over their 53-man roster. Some of the players that were cut are now a part of the sixteen man practice squad. Green Bay is certainly not finished as they want to still improve the roster before week one starts next Sunday. Here are five observations on the Packers current 53-man roster:
The Defensive Line Depth Is A Strength
The first observation for the Packers’ roster is their defensive line. Johnathan Ford got the nod for the final sixth spot on the defensive line over players like Chris Slayton and Jack Heflin. However, it does not really matter as the Packers were able to sign Heflin and Slayton back to the practice squad. The Packers are now loaded with talent along the defensive line. If an injury occurs Jack Heflin or Chris Slayton would more than likely be called up to the main roster. The defensive line is arguably the biggest strength on the team right now and should dominate this season.
Amari Rodgers’ Versatility Is A Plus
The second observation is Amari Rodgers’ use in the offense. The second year pro from Clemson looks faster and more agile. There were flashes of this in the third preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Rodgers also had some looks in the run game as well. This is probably the reason why the Packers kept only two running backs on the roster. Amari could be be the temporary third down back until Kylin Hill comes back for the PUP list. Amari Rodgers will be a true weapon for the Packers offense this year.
The Offensive Line Possesses A Lot Of Talent
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The thirds and most important observation is the offensive line. The Packers always invest in this position to build and keep the foundation in place. Throughout the preseason, the Packers offensive line as whole were solid in pass blocking and not too bad in run blocking either. David Bakhtiari and Elgton Jenkins will be back healthy and that will certainly help. Josh Myers, Yosh Ninjman, and Jon Runyan are solid starters as well. Additionally, Zach Tom is already turning heads and looks to be the real deal. Jake Hanson and Royce Newman are not the best, but are very solid depth pieces. Based all on this, the Packers could arguably have the best offensive line in the NFL this year.
The Wide Receiver Room Will Turn Heads
The fourth observation is the depth at wide receiver. Sammy Watkins has looked good and could be a huge factor on offense. Allen Lazard is looking to step up and have a breakout season and has also earned the trust of Aaron Rodgers. Randall Cobb is another player that has a great connection with Rodgers and still has a lot left in the tank at 32 years old. Additionally, the Packers have three talented rookies in Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Samori Toure. They were able to bring back Juwann Winfree back to the practice squad who was good in training camp and in the preseason. There are a ton of options for Aaron Rodgers to spread the ball to help make the Packers’ offense explode this season.
Secondary Help Is Going To Be A Focus
The last observation is a concerning one. The Packers have an issue when it comes to the safety position. The depth behind Darnell Savage and Adrian Amos is pretty much unknown and concerning. With injuries to Vernon Scott and Shawn Davis, there were little to no options for help . The Packers did just sign a safety in Rudy Ford, but he will mostly be used for special teams just like Dallin Leavitt and Tariq Carpenter. Green Bay does have another option with Rasul Douglas as they tried him at safety. The Packers might be in trouble if Darnell Savage or Adrian Amos have to miss time, but time will tell with how Ford and Carpenter progress throughout the season.
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